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Holiday Weight Management Survival Guide

By Paige Waehner, About.com

Updated November 25, 2008

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Watch Your Diet

While most of us struggle to find time to exercise during the holidays, the other big contributor to gaining weight is the food. It's everywhere--work, parties, home and it's so hard to resist. Your mantra this holiday season is this: Portion control. If you're cooking, you have another option--make your meals a little healthier:

Tips for Making Healthier Meals
Your Low Fat Thanksgiving

If you're not cooking, that means you have to be your own best friend and make everything you eat a conscious choice:

  • Choose special foods. Don't waste your calories on chips and dip, or other foods you can have anytime. Save your calories for the special foods you only get on Thanksgiving.
  • Step away from the buffet. If you're eating buffet-style, fill your plate and leave the room. You'll eat more when you stand near the food.
  • Don't starve yourself. My family used to go all day without eating so we could gorge ourselves. Now we know that eating small, healthy meals or snacks throughout the day can keep your energy up and help you savor the Thanksgiving meal without feeling like you're starving.
  • Watch the drinks. Say no to high calorie drinks like eggnog (which can have up to 250 calories for just half a cup) and stick with lighter drinks (like wine). Drink water between each drink to stay hydrated.

More Resources

10 Ways to Control Portions

Explore Exercise
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